sM | What have you accomplished in your residency?

NA ── I spent my time creating a combination of original works and interpretations of van Gogh’s works. I spent time on a few portraits in an expressive style inspired by van Gogh’s, and had quite a bit of fun with those. One of my favorite pieces that I created in my time at IVG is a big winter scene inspired by a sunrise I photographed in Alexandria, Minnesota a couple years ago. Another is an interpretation of Starry Night: the scene is similar but I used a lighter color palette to reimagine it at dawn.

sM | What advice would you give to future artists in residence?

NA ── It may sound cliché, but in my opinion the most important thing to know before going into this experience is that you’ll get the most out of it by just relaxing and having fun with your art. Don’t stress yourself out by trying to rush through pieces, work robotically, or hold yourself to unrealistic standards. This is a great opportunity—be sure to take full advantage of it. Also: bring more easels than you think you’re going to need to display your work! I ran out of them rather quickly.

IG: @artsypeach